Annona reticulata aka Bullock's Heart

Annona reticulata is a tropical fruit tree in the Annonaceae family. Its common names include custard apple and bullock's heart. Sources place its origin in the West Indies and tropical mainland America. It has long grown in gardens across the American tropics. Reports differ on whether truly wild trees remain. Useful Tropical Plants reports an IUCN status of Least Concern.

The tree grows fast and forms a rounded or spreading crown. Its shape can also be upright and uneven. Missouri Botanical Garden gives a height of 20–35 feet [6.1–10.7 metres]. Useful Tropical Plants gives a smaller maximum of 23 feet [7 metres]. Garden trees can spread to 30 feet [9.1 metres]. The green leaves are long, narrow, and sharply pointed. They measure about four to eight inches long. Crushed leaves give off an unpleasant smell. Trees may keep their leaves or shed them in winter. Leaf loss can occur near the northern edge of their range.

Small clusters of fragrant flowers hang from the branches. The flowers are yellow-green and about an inch long. Missouri Botanical Garden describes spring flowering and lists June as bloom time. Greenhouse trees may flower in summer and fruit in fall. Beetles and other insects pollinate the flowers. The showy fruit can reach nearly five inches across. Its soft flesh contains many brown seeds. Ripe flesh ranges from cream-white to yellow, with uneven quality. People eat it fresh or use it in drinks and desserts. It also goes into preserves, puddings, and ice cream.

Grow this tree in frost-free sites sheltered from cold winds. It suits USDA zones 10–11 and needs protection from frost. Full sun or part shade supports growth. Rich soil with even moisture and good drainage works best. The tree also tolerates soil of average quality. It may survive brief drops to 26–28°F, but cold remains a risk. Greenhouses offer an option beyond its outdoor range. It is hard to grow as a houseplant. Gardens use it for both fruit and ornament. Serious pests and diseases are few, though mealybugs can occur.

Only the fruit flesh is suitable for food. The seeds and other plant parts are toxic. Sap from cut branches can badly harm the eyes. Sources record traditional medicinal uses, not proof of safe treatment. Leaves supply dye and materials for tanning. Twigs provide fibre, and wood serves for utensils and yokes.